Abstract

The study was conducted in South Achefer and Jabi Tehinan districts for mapping, identifying actors and analyzing constraints and opportunities of potato value chain. Simple random sampling technique was used to select producers (100), traders (70), and end consumers (40). Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from primary and secondary sources. Hence, qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed through narration and descriptive statistics, respectively. Input suppliers, producer, collectors, wholesalers, retailers, processors and end consumers were potato value chain actors. Quantitative data result reveal that, processors add most value compared to the other value chain actors; 722.68 and 93.21 birr/qt in South Achefer and Jabi Tehinan districts, respectively whereas producers add least value that is 13.74 and 4.56 birr/qt in South Achefer and Jabi Tehinan districts, respectively. Producing more yields from small plot of land, favorable climatic condition and easiness of work were some major opportunities. Some of the major constraints were pests, perishable nature of potato, shortage of supply, storage problem and shortage of input (oil and light). Developing innovation platform incorporating different actor is crucial for reducing factors affecting potato value chain. Education/training on consumption of potato should be given to improve habit of consuming potato.

Key words: Actors, constraints, potato, producers and value chain.